Countries with the Easiest Digital Nomad Visas

Working online while living abroad sounds like a dream. But for many digital nomads, the real challenge is getting the paperwork sorted. That’s where the digital nomad visa comes in. These special permits allow remote workers to live in another country legally while keeping their job based elsewhere.

In recent years, more countries have launched remote work visa programmes to attract travelling professionals. The best part? Some of them are surprisingly easy to get.

In this guide, we’ll highlight countries that offer the easiest digital nomad permits, so you can skip the red tape and start planning your next base.

What Is a Digital Nomad Visa?

A digital nomad visa (or permit) allows remote workers to live in a country for an extended period, usually between 6 months and 2 years. It’s not the same as a tourist visa, which limits how long you can stay or whether you can work.

To apply, you typically need:

• Proof of income from outside the country
• Health insurance
• A clean criminal record
• A valid passport

Each country has different rules, but many keep things simple, especially for freelancers, entrepreneurs, and employees of international companies.

Why Choose a Country with a Simple Visa?

Visa paperwork can be overwhelming. That’s why choosing a country with a smooth application process makes all the difference.

Benefits of easy nomad visas:

• Less stress and faster approvals
• Clear requirements and low fees
• Options for family members or dependents
• Opportunity to stay longer than a tourist visa allows

Let’s explore the top destinations offering easy-to-get digital nomad permits.

1. Estonia

Estonia was one of the first countries to launch an official digital nomad visa.

Key Highlights:

• Stay up to 12 months
• Fast online application process
• English-speaking government resources
• Minimum income: €3,500/month

Estonia has a strong digital culture, free public Wi-Fi, and beautiful historic cities. It’s also part of the EU, which makes travel across Europe easier.

2. Portugal

Portugal is a favourite for remote workers, thanks to great weather, good food, and friendly locals.

Key Highlights:

• Offers the D8 visa (remote worker visa)
• Stay up to 2 years, renewable
• Minimum income: around €3,040/month
• Family members can apply with you

Portugal’s visa process is slightly longer but still straightforward. Plus, you can apply for residency after five years.

3. Georgia

Georgia (the country, not the US state) has one of the simplest entry systems for digital nomads.

Key Highlights:

• Stay up to 1 year visa-free for 95+ nationalities
• No formal application needed
• Low cost of living and tax(“Understanding Tax Residency for Digital Nomads”) perks
• No income minimum (but proof of funds helps)

With mountain views, fast internet, and a growing nomad community, Georgia is ideal for remote work.

4. Croatia

Croatia now offers a digital nomad permit that makes it easy to live and work in paradise.

Key Highlights:

• Stay up to 12 months
• Income Requirement is €2,540/month
• Apply online or at a consulate
• No local taxes if income is from abroad

Imagine working from a seaside town with cobblestone streets and crystal-clear water? Croatia makes it possible.

5. Barbados

Want a Caribbean view from your office window? Barbados offers the Barbados Welcome Stamp.

Key Highlights:

• Stay up to 12 months
• Quick online application
• The income requirement is $50,000 USD/year
• Family-friendly option

You’ll need to work for a company based outside Barbados, but the lifestyle and scenery make it more than worth it.

6. Costa Rica

Costa Rica is perfect for nature-loving nomads.

Key Highlights:

• Offers a new remote work visa
• Valid for 1 year, renewable
• The income requirement is $3,000 USD/month (individual)
• Health insurance is required

Costa Rica has a strong digital infrastructure, a focus on sustainability, and a relaxed way of life.

7. Mauritius

Mauritius is an island nation in the Indian Ocean, offering an easy Premium Visa for remote workers.

Key Highlights:

• Stay up to 1 year (extendable)
• Free to apply
• Proof of remote work and travel insurance required
• No minimum income, but financial stability is expected

This peaceful island has fast Wi-Fi, great weather, and friendly locals—ideal for quiet productivity.

8. Mexico

Mexico doesn’t have a special digital nomad visa, but its temporary resident visa is an easy alternative.

Key Highlights:

• Stay up to 4 years
• The Income Requirement is around $2,600 USD/month
• Apply through a consulate
• Lots of family-friendly cities

With affordable living costs, good infrastructure, and diverse culture, Mexico is a top choice for nomads with or without kids.

9. Dubai (UAE)

Dubai’s remote work visa is perfect for those who want a city lifestyle with global flair.

Key Highlights:

• Stay up to 1 year
• Income requirement: $5,000 USD/month
• Full access to resident services (schools, rentals, etc.)
• Apply online

Dubai blends luxury, modernity, and multicultural living, great for professionals with steady income.

10. Iceland

Looking for adventure and natural beauty? Iceland has a long-term visa for remote workers.

Key Highlights:

• Stay up to 180 days
• The income requirement is €7,100/month
• Clean background and travel insurance required
• For non-EU/EEA nationals only

While it’s pricier than other options, Iceland’s landscape and safety make it a unique choice.

Tips for a Smooth Application

Prepare Your Documents

Most countries ask for:

• Proof of remote work or company ownership
• Recent bank statements
• A clean criminal record
• Valid travel insurance

Check each country’s official website before applying.

Apply Early

Processing times can vary. Apply a few months ahead of your planned arrival.

Stay Flexible

Rules change. Make sure you have a backup plan if the visa takes longer or gets delayed.

Final Thoughts: Choose the Right Visa for Your Journey

Whether you’re dreaming of a beach hut in Barbados or a city apartment in Lisbon, getting a remote work visa has never been easier. These countries are leading the way—offering clear requirements, fast processing, and real support for digital nomads.

By choosing a country with a simple nomad visa, you can focus on what really matters—working, exploring, and living life on your own terms.